FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

Jorin raced down the dark, empty hallway. He darted to the left. Dead end - locked door. He could hear the guards approaching fast.

Jorin looked up. He turned, kicked off the wall, then grabbed onto the wooden rafters above. He clambered up and watched carefully below.

Three guards came around the corner, coming to a sudden stop, bumping into each other. They looked around, puzzled.

Jorin crawled off in the opposite direction silently, smiling as he did. He stopped for a moment to look at his makeshift map. After getting his bearings and making sure the coast is clear, Jorin dropped down from the rafters and headed off to the east end of the building.

Finally, Jorin reached the vault-room door. Locked. He pulled out his lock picks and worked the door. The lock was more complicated than he had expected. A minute later, Jorin had opened the door and slipped in, undetected.

The vault was at the end of a massive hall. A long red carpet stretched out across the hall, over a white and gold marbled floor. Six large white pillars held up a massive skylight, and between them, several small pedestals holding a variety of gold artifacts. The pale, blue moonlight made the entire hall shine. It was an awe-inspiring sight. Jorin slowly walked down the impressive hall, taking in the awesome sight.

At the end of the hall was a fountain of sorts. It was a shallow, dark blue marble pool, lilies and grass growing out from the centre. Beyond the small pond was the vault. It sat two feet under three giant stained-glass windows, which added an eerie hue to the moonlit ambience. Unlike most vault doors, this one was made to be a part of the room. It was a massive and very heavy vault door, exactly like every other. However, this one was made of polished silver and gold, worth well over the object Jorin was after.

After working the vault door for just over a minute, probably the longest minute of Jorin's life, it was open. Jorin entered quickly.

Jorin crept through the vault, making more noise than he would have preferred. The entire room was metal, the floor hollow grating. These types of vaults were designed to be as loud as possible. Jorin hated these types of vaults.

As fate would have it, Jorin's object of desire was at the farthest end. Reaching the end, Jorin let out an incredible sigh and pocketed the item.

The item was a silver statuette of an archaic god, somewhat resembling a serpent. The eyes, six in total, were made from a strange dark red stone Jorin had never heard of before. He just assumed it was ruby. In two of the four long arms were gold swords, hilts made of sapphire. The horns, too, were gold, projecting from the god's head. Its end wrapped around a bronze, square pillar. The entire statue was around twelve inches tall, and was heavier than it looked. Jorin carefully slipped it into his satchel and turned to leave.

Jorin was greeted by two guards and Lord Benjamin himself. He said, "Welcome to my humble abode, thief. I'm sure you'll find my basement much more appealing. Much more, shall we say, you. Take him a way, boys," Lord Benjamin snapped his fingers.

The two guards advanced. As they did, Jorin grabbed his dagger. He felt a slight churning in his stomach.

Suddenly, Lord Benjamin keeled over, and before the two guards could react, they, too, fell victim to the mystery fur's striking blow. The newcomer stood triumphantly over the bodies.

Jorin let go of his dagger and lowered his hood. He laughed, "Nice work, kid. Could you have waited any longer?"

"You know me, Jorin. I like to see you sweat."

Jorin smiled. "C'mon, lion, let's split before someone notices the Lord isn't around."

Jorin walked through the vault while the newcomer searched the bodies for extra cash.

After closing the vault, Lord Benjamin still inside, the two disappeared into the darkness.

"So, you locked Benny inside the vault?" Sam asked, laughing. Sam, Jorin's best friend, was a white rabbit who has known Jorin since the otter was a beggar on the streets, picking pockets for a living.

"Yeah. The moron didn't see it coming. He thought he had tricked me. But, lesson learned: never fuck with a master thief."

"So, Alexis," Sam turned to the young lion, "how's life on the street been treatin' ya?"

Alexis, somewhat shy around unfamiliar furs, replied, "Uh. I-it's alright."

Jorin interrupted, "I've been showin' him the ropes. You know, the 'do's and don't's' of being a thief. Kid's a fast learner."

Alexis smiled at Jorin.

The pub was crowded that night. The three sat at their table, listening to other peoples conversations.

One particular ape caught Alexis' attention, "Did ya hear 'bout them 'Arper's? Rumor 'as it they 'ad 'emselves a kid! Not only that, they said the kid's gone missin'. Says 'e was kidnaped, 'an probably killed by now. I don't know 'bout them so-called 'great fam'lies,' you know? 'S always somethin'." The other ape just nodded.

Sam said, sympathetically, "You homesick, kid?"

Alexis stared into his glass. "Sometimes. I guess I'm still adjusting. For twenty years, you know, I've been waited on and looked after. Manicures, pedicures... all those stupid, frivolous things I had always just taken for granted. I had no idea what life was like outside the mansion, or what it feels like to get your paws dirty. Life was easy. And most people wouldn't trade that for the world."

"Yeah," Sam said, raising his glass, "and that shows you've real got character, kid. You're one in a million."

Jorin, too, raised his glass. The two waited for Alexis.

Alexis stared at Jorin and Sam. Finally, he raised his glass and the three downed the rest of their ale.

The clock, barely audible over the crowd, struck two. Sam slammed down his empty glass and said, "Well, it's getting late, boys. Unlike you, I've got an early morning. See ya when I see ya."

Alexis and Jorin waved to Sam as he left the pub. Jorin pulled out the ancient god statue and placed it on the table. The two stared at it, smiling proudly.

A large tiger walked past the table, and was suddenly stopped by the statue. He said, loudly, "Hey! Where'd you guys get that? It looks just like the one Lord Benjamin purchased at that auction a few weeks ago! I was there, you know."

Alexis froze.

Jorin simply smiled and winked, "Good eye, tiger. But this is only a cheap replica. Why, I heard the Lord keeps his most precious items in his impregnable vault. Nobody's ever gotten in, so I've heard. Besides, there's nothing wrong with carrying around a cheap forgery like this. If anyone is even stupid enough to think this is the real statue... well, you're not that stupid, are you, tiger?"

The tiger stood up straight and hiked up his pants, "No, sir, I am not! I could tell right away that was a fake. Shame on you, little otter, for trying to pass such a poor-quality duplicate as the real thing." The tiger walked away, nose in the air.

Alexis laughed, amazed and relieved, "You have quite the silver tongue, my friend."

"Practice, Alexis. Lots of practice."

The pair sat at their table for about an hour. Jorin regaled Alexis in stories from his past, sounding like an old fur telling exaggerated tales to his grandchild. He would say how he narrowly escaped death or capture, or how he got the "greatest treasure of them all."

The clock struck three. The pair decided to call it a night. It had been almost a quarter of a year since they first met. They left the pub and traveled the dark twisted streets to Jorin's home.

Along the way, Alexis turned to Jorin and held out his paws. He said, "Jorin, I want to give you something."

Jorin looked at Alexis, eyebrow raised.

Alexis continued, "It's one of my canines you knocked out three months ago..." He opened his paws. The tooth was attached to a long piece of leather, and a lock of hair was firmly intertwined with the roots of the tooth. It appeared almost tribal.

They stopped in the dark, narrow alley. Jorin asked, "What is this for? Do you think I need reminding?"

"No, of course not. I realized not too long ago if something happened to me, you may not be able to control yourself. I figured if you had a piece of me... you would never forget. A little something to keep you balanced, I suppose."

Jorin leaned in and placed his left paw on Alexis' right cheek. He said, "I could never forget you." Jorin softly kissed Alexis, "You saved my life."

The two held each other for a moment. They continued to Jorin's home, holding paws, a gesture which they rarely shared.

Jorin woke just past noon. He quietly rose out of bed, so as to not disturb Alexis. As usual, Sam was rapping at the door just as Jorin had dragged himself out of bed. It seemed that Sam always somehow knew when Jorin was awake.

Jorin walked to the door and swung it open. Sam, bright-eyed as always, greeted Jorin enthusiastically. "What's shakin', Jor? You just crawl out of bed?"

Jorin grunted and let his friend in.

"I don't know how many times I have to tell you this, Jorin, but you really should dress yourself when answering the door. What if it was the King himself?"

"Then we wouldn't be having this conversation, now would we?"

"No, I suppose we wouldn't," Sam laughed. He noticed Jorin's new necklace, "Hey, what's that around your neck?"

"Oh. It's one of Alexis' teeth. He gave it to me last night after we left. It's a constant reminder of all he's done for me... I guess."

"I see. Well, that aside, I have some interesting information for you."

The two sat down.

"A couple things. First of all, I just found out the Harper's have a son," he winked at Jorin. "Apparently they're pretty pissed off about their son being abducted."

"Abducted?! Those assholes don't know what the hell they're talked about."

"I know, I know," Sam said, trying to calm Jorin.

Alexis finally woke up. "Huh? What're you talking about?" he said groggily.

Sam looked over at Alexis, "You're parents apparently to care about you now, kid. Word just got out that they've got a son, and he's been abducted."

"Abducted? Well, I wasn't- "

"Yeah, I know. They've got the entire City Guard looking for ya. You two had better watch your backs. The City Guard are a lot tougher than regular house-dogs."

Jorin cut in, "So, what's the other piece of information?"

"Oh, right. Well, old Mortimer Greystone is going out tonight with other important dignitaries. His stash of precious gems are ripe for the picking. What do you think? Pawful of diamonds will bring in a lot of cash, my friend."

"It's tempting, but I think I'm going to take it easy for a couple days." Jorin turned to Alexis, "What do you say, lover? You wanna go solo?"

"Uhh..." Alexis said dumbly.

Sam took out a rolled up piece of parchment and placed it on the table. "Now, I know I haven't been the best provider, but I think I'm going to make up for it right now."

Jorin stared at Sam while he unrolled the paper. It was a map of the Greystone estate. It had, marked on it, the locations of all Mortimer's stashes and showrooms, as well as notes on how best to break into the mansion, plus several locations of hidden safes all around the house. Jorin was beaming.

Sam said, smiling, "What do you think?"

"You done good, Sammy. But, how did you get this?"

Sam winked, "I have my sources, Jor. That's all you need to know."

With that, Sam stood up and gave Jorin a kiss goodbye. Just before closing the door, he pointed to Alexis and said, "Hey, remember to watch out for the City Guard. They know your face, you know." He shut the door behind him.

Jorin got up and walked over to the bed, which Alexis was still half lying in. He sat down on the edge and examined the map. He said, "What do you think, Alexis? You wanna do it?"

Alexis replied with silence.

Jorin rubbed the naked lion's shoulder. "If you want to sit this one out, I can go it alone. It's no problem."

Finally, Alexis said, "I can't believe my parents... Why? Why now? For twenty years I've been kept a secret... do they really care about me?"

Jorin snuggled in closer to Alexis and said, "Look, whatever happens, I'll be there for you. I'm not going to pretend to know how you feel, because I don't. I never knew my parents. I've been on my own since I was a kid, so I'll never know the feeling of neglect and resentment. But, if you ever need a shoulder to cry on, you can always count on me."

Alexis smiled. "Thank you, Jorin. I appreciate it."

The two embraced and lay back down on the bed. Jorin threw the map aside. They began to kiss each other softly, and Jorin caressed Alexis' warm, furry chest.

Jorin whispered into Alexis' ear, "Turn around. I'll help you forget about your parents."

Alexis grinned and turned around in the bed. He lay there on his stomach, Jorin kneeling behind him. Jorin grabbed the base of Alexis' tail and lifted the lion's rump into the air. He fondled Alexis' rump softly, while nuzzling his tailhole with his cold black nose.

Alexis squealed slightly at the sudden cold sensation. "You've gotta give me a bit of warning before doing that."

The two laughed.

Jorin reached his paw down and between Alexis' legs and massaged his soft testicles while gently kissing his tailhole.

Alexis was now fully erect. Jorin grabbed hold and slowly handled the throbbing organ. He stopped after a moment, teasing the lion. Alexis was breathing heavily now.

Jorin rested his head, laughing slightly, on Alexis' lower back while rubbing his thighs. Jorin lifted his head and grabbed a firm hold of Alexis' hips.

Jorin slowly slipped his cock into Alesis' tailhole. He eased it in, as Alexis had made a slight groaning sound. He pulled it out part way and pushed it back in slowly, this time a bit farther.

The deeper Jorin went, the louder they grunted and panted. Jorin gradually thrust faster and harder. As he did, he stroked Alexis' sides and thighs. This made Alexis moan almost uncontrollably, and it always made Jorin smile.

The two moved in one fluid movement, sharing their essence and warmth. At that moment, their spirits were intertwined. Their thoughts, their pleasures, their pains; they shared them all.

Eventually, Jorin felt his orgasm approaching. He shut his eyes tightly and slowed, allowing his seed to fill Alexis' bowels. He sighed deeply in relief and in pleasure.

Alexis, too, gave a deep sigh. The pair slowed their movements, still moving fluidly, almost melting together. Panting, they lay back down on the bed, just staring into each others eyes.

"So," Jorin finally said, "what do you say? You wanna have one more go together?"

Alexis laughed, "You are unbelievable." He was still erect from Jorin's unfinished business.

Jorin giggled and noticed Alexis' still-throbbing shaft. He leaned up and reached his paw down to finish the job. Within moments, he was done. Jorin licked up the mess and played around with Alexis' jewels. He lay back down, both furs satisfied.

"Well?" Jorin asked.

"What? Are you serious? I can't! Especially not now."

"One hand job and you're out? C'mon, we just woke up! There's plenty of time to get over it."

"Wait, hold on a second. What are we talking about?"

"The job tonight. Lord Mortimer's gems. Don't tell me you've forgotten already."

"Oh. No, I haven't forgotten." Alexis laughed, "I thought you were talking about... something else."

"Oh, you thought I was talking about... ooh! Hey, I'm good, but not that good."

"Alright, that's enough of that." Alexis sighed. "Okay, Jorin. Let's do it. Tonight, we'll take Greystone's stones. You have a plan?"

"Well, I'd have to take a better look at the map, but if memory serves me, this'll be a piece of cake."

The sun fell behind the Western Coast. From shadow to shadow, the duo made their move.

Lord Mortimer Greystone, probably the last of the true Greystone's and one of the oldest of the seven Great Families, lived in the rich part of the City, otherwise known as Vandale.

Vandale was well-guarded as far as City streets go, but it was nothing Jorin and Alexis couldn't handle.

They reached the Greystone manor gates. Across the dark street, between two buildings about ten feet away, the darkly-clad thieves skulked.

Two guards patrolled the front gate, and torches lit up that section of the street. To Jorin's surprise, the archers were absent. He peered around, looking for the best way in. Remembering the map, he knew there should be a small hole in the wall behind a large bunch of bushes and trees. He also had to consider the map's age; almost ten years.

Jorin noticed where bushes had once been. He picked up a small rock and threw it down the street into a bunch of empty barrels and boxes. It didn't make quite the noise he had hoped for, but it drew the guard's attention. Perfect.

Jorin and Alexis took off silently from the shadows. The wall at this point was angled away from the guards, toward the manor. The duo were out of view. Jorin looked around, feeling the wall desperately for the hole. It was filled, just as he thought.

"Damn it. Now what?" Jorin said to himself.

Alexis looked around for anything that would help. He noticed a pile of old, rusty chains outside the blacksmith. He slunk over and dragged them to the wall.

Jorin watched tentatively.

Alexis hooked the end of chains to make a loop and lassoed it onto one of the wooden pikes which lined the wall. He turned to Jorin and gestured him to go first.

Jorin smiled and pulled himself up and over, being careful not to get himself impaled.

Alexis swiftly followed.

Now on the Greystone grounds, the pair made their way along the inner wall toward the manor. As they closed in on the manor, easy-entry became seemingly more and more difficult. The three story mansion was locked up tight. On the western flank, two black cat archers stood watch. And, as they expected, three guards at the front doors.

They reached the manor wall, just under the balcony where the cats stood. They checked nearby windows, but they were all locked. It was either the front door, or either the western or eastern balcony.

Jorin began to pace. He looked at his map under the pale moonlight. There was a cellar door around back. Jorin pocketed the map and the two took off, quickly and silently.

They had to be careful not to be caught by the ever-vigilant archers; they are notorious for their night vision.

Darting back and forth from dark bush to bush, tree to tree, the duo made it around to the back of the estate. Not noted on the map, there was now a large play area in the massive, once tree-covered backyard.

The play area looked very similar to the Olde Knave, a former theatre house once owned by the City's finest performance troupe, the Gilded Sterns. This replica had been scaled down greatly and was outdoors.

Jorin thought it odd that there would have been such dense forestry in the middle of the City, let alone some old fur's backyard, but he shook his head and searched for the cellar doors. As he searched around, Jorin quickly realized the map was not as useful as he had thought.

Alexis searched over past the faux-Knave, while Jorin looked around the various chests and boxes. There was nothing of use.

Finally, "Jorin! I found the cellar doors. I think the map's backwards or something."

Jorin rushed over. Bending down, he said, "Good work." He took the bulky lock in his paws and examined it. He spat at the lock and stuck one of his throwing knives into the keyhole. A moment later, the lock was off the and two slunk into the cellar, shutting the doors behind them.

As extravagant as all the Great Families manors were, their cellars were all the same: dark, dank, and musky. Jorin knew the vault was somewhere in the cellar, yet this was an unusually large cellar. He pulled out the map once again and held it to the torchlight. As usual, the vault was at the opposite end of the building.

According to the map, the vault door was behind a metal portcullis. Since the manor was so old, he figured the portcullis could be simply opened by using an almost archaic mechanism; cranks and pulleys. Therefore, Jorin guessed, the vault would be guarded twenty-four hours.

The two headed off in the direction of the vault, keeping in mind the poor attention to detail on the map.

After navigating the vile corridors of the Greystone cellar for a while longer than they had expected, they saw a familiar light. Torchlight.

Jorin peeked around the corner of the corridor and saw two large bulldogs guarding an entranceway. He knew this was the vault entrance.

"Alright. Here's the plan," Jorin whispered to Alexis, "I'll toss one of your flashbangs, then when those bastards are distracted, you charge 'em and knock 'em out."

"Going for the subtle approach tonight, huh?" Alexis replied sarcastically.

"Any other suggestions, rookie?"

Alexis replied by handing Jorin a flashbang. The flashbangs were nothing more than some explosive chemical wrapped up tightly in thin paper. Jorin didn't understand the science behind them, he just knew they worked. For a moment, anyway. Just long enough for the large lion to make his move.

Jorin stood up and turned around the corner, and as he did, Alexis bolted from behind. Jorin threw the small flashbang down in front of the guards, who had just noticed and started to draw their swords. They growled and covered their eyes.

Alexis had already shut his eyes, missing the small flash. Just as the bulldogs opened their eyes, Alexis threw his large powerful fist into the closest guard's face. A loud crack and the guard fell into the other.

As the second guard backed off, letting his partner fall, he was greeted by a hard knee in the gut, then two powerful paws against his temples.

Jorin walked forward smiling. He rubbed Alexis' shoulder, "Good job. Now hide the bodies and pour this all over them." Jorin pulled out a flask and took a short swig, then handed it to Alexis. "Meet me in the vault when you're done."

Alexis nodded then bent over and pulled the bodies away. As he did, Jorin entered the vault room entrance.

As he had suspected, the portcullis was operable by a massive crank. Jorin grabbed hold of the crank and pulled it counterclockwise. The heavy metal gate opened slowly. It was heavier than he expected.

Finally, the portcullis was opened as far as it could go. Jorin placed a wooden pole under the crank to keep it from slamming down. He bent down in front of the vault door and pulled out his lockpicks. Jorin worked the lock. It was more complex than he had expected.

Suddenly, Jorin heard a noise. He put his paw on the handle of a throwing knife and whipped his head around, picks still in the lock. He kept absolutely quiet. He heard nothing but silence. After a moment, he continued working the lock.

Finally, the lock was open. He pocketed his picks and slowly opened the heavy, creaky metal door. He kept it ajar slightly for Alexis.

It was black as pitch in the vault. Jorin felt around the walls and found an unlit torch. He pulled out his small piece of flint and placed the torch on the floor. He scraped the flint on the cold stone floor to get a spark. Finally, the torch was ignited.

Looking up, Jorin was in awe. Treasures and jewels lined the shelves and walls, glittering in the torchlight. Gold, diamond, sapphire, precious silver. Jorin began to laugh giddily. He scanned the shelves for one particular item.

According to Sam, the Greystone Family gems were in a long, small wooden chest lined with gold and silver. It had a tiny steel lock on the front.

Jorin found it on the middle shelf at the very end. He easily ripped the top off. Peering in, Jorin stroked the strange jewels with his paw. There were seven in all. The jewels, each one round and egg-shaped, were about half the size of Jorin's fist. They were all very deep red, almost black, with what seemed to be light-red veins flowing through the centre. They seemed more like small opals to Jorin, but he knew this is what he desired.

Jorin put the case back on the shelf and took each small opal and placed them in their separate sections in his bag, so as to not damage their smooth, shiny surfaces.

Once he finished, Jorin placed the damaged lid back on the case and started to leave. He noticed a purple velvet bag on the shelf beside a large gold statue and picked it up. Gold coins. Jorin smiled and put those in his bag, as well.

Jorin put out the torch with his foot and placed it back in the hole. He left the vault, shutting both the door and the portcullis behind him. Then he heard noise.

Jorin suddenly realized Alexis hadn't returned. His heart sank. Now pressed up against the damp, slimy wall, the noise was gone. He stood there a while longer. He was sweating now. He tried to convince himself Alexis was alright. That he left the manor and was on his way back to the pub. Jorin raced down the dark, stone hallway. He smelled ale.

Jorin looked into a small storage area near the cellar doors and saw two unconscious bulldogs partly soaked in alcohol. Alexis had done his job. He looked up the small set of stairs and noticed the cellar doors were propped open slightly. He figured Alexis had, in fact, left the manor already. But something still bothered him.

Back at the pub, Jorin was greeted by a warm, drunken bunny. Sam draped his arms around Jorin's neck and gave him a big wet kiss on the cheek. Jorin wiped his cheek and pulled Sam off. They finally sat at a table, closest to the bar.

"So, Jorin," Sam began, drunkenly, "did you get old Greystone's jewels?" Sam laughed uproariously.

"Yeah. Hey, you haven't seen Alexis around, have you Sammy?"

"What? No. Why? You lookin' fer some action? 'Cause I've got a fine piece of tail just waitin' for ya!"

"Alright, Sammy, maybe I'll come back and talk to you later."

"No, no, no. I'm alright. Tell me what's wrong."

Jorin sighed. "Alexis and I went to steal Greystone's jewels- "

Sam snickered, spitting all over the table.

Jorin sighed again and rolled his eyes.

"Sorry, Jor. Go on. I promise I'll stop."

"Well, Alexis had taken out the guards and hauled them away. I did my business and I haven't seem him since. I think something happened to him. I think he got caught."

"Oh, c'mon, Jorin. Do you think he'd be that stupid? I mean, he's been taught by the master!"

"I don't know, Sammy. Anything's possible. I'm worried."

"Well, I'm sure he's perfectly fine. You're worrying over nothing. The kid probably got tired and left without you. You'll prob'ly get home and find that sexy beast lying in your bed naked, and aching to be fucked. Now, come have a drink with me! These dirty bastards can't down 'em like you can!"

"No thanks, Sammy. I think I just need some rest. I'll see you later."

"Alright, Sammy. I'll see ya in the morning... maybe."

Jorin walked home slowly, thinking about Alexis, 'Something had to have happened. What were those noises? Was it Alexis? No. He's better than that. But maybe he slipped up? Maybe Alexis dropped the flask, or a knife, or a sword, or maybe a piece of the armour fell off. Maybe he is at home. But what if he did slip up? What would they do to him? Put him in prison? Maybe I can break him out. I know I can find the blueprints of Stonewood Prison."

Jorin became lost in his own thoughts. He finally reached his home.

Jorin held his breath and walked through, calling out to Alexis. No response. He heard a noise coming from his room. He rushed into his room, only to find an empty bed and open window. The shutters were banging against the sill.

"Fuck!" Jorin cursed. His mind began to race. He took off his dark, smelly clothes and threw them to the corner. He began to pace, naked. He held Alexis' tooth in his left paw, still around his neck. He had a headache and felt sick to his stomach.

Jorin slowly caressed the tooth, breathing slowly and heavily. He sat on the edge of his bed. He lay down, shivering, still rubbing the tooth. Finally, Jorin fell asleep.

When Jorin opened his eyes, everything was dark. Off in the distance, he saw two torches. He stood up and looked around him. Total darkness. He seemed to be floating. Jorin looked back at the torches. They were red. He was entranced. He suddenly saw Alexis. Jorin reached out his paws to touch Alexis, but the closer he reached, the farther Alexis became. It was never quite close enough.

Jorin cried out Alexis' name. Alexis simply laughed and ran. Ran toward the torches. The red torches. Jorin tried to run after the lion. He moved too slow, as if running in water. The torches came closer. Quickly. Too quickly. Jorin stopped trying to run. They continued to advance. Jorin started to shiver and shake. He fell to his knees. He could see Alexis far in the distance, still running. The torches turned into eyes, then into a massive cave. No. Jaws.

Jorin's eyes widened. He was terrified. He held his head and screamed.

"Get away from me! Leave me alone!!"

The incredible jaws grew larger and larger. They closed down on Jorin. He felt an immense pain. Pain in his stomach, in his head, his arms, legs, everywhere. He curled into a ball, eyes shut tightly and trembling.

Jorin suddenly heard a loud knocking noise. "Stop it! Leave me alone!!" Jorin shouted. The knocking got louder, and seemed to intensify the pain. He howled out in agony.

Then, he felt a familiar touch. It was a warm touch. Jorin, still shaking, lifted his head and opened his eyes. It was Sam.

Sam looked worried. Jorin grabbed onto Sam's arm and squeezed tightly. Sam bent down and leaned forward.

"Jesus Christ, Jorin, what the hell happened to you? Your eyes are completely bloodshot, I can hardly even see your pupils... You're sweating heavily... you're shivering like you just saw a ghost..."

"I did! I knew it! I knew something happened!" Jorin shouted.

"Slow down, Jor. What the hell are you talking about?"

"Alexis. Something happened to Alexis. He never came back"

"What happened to Alexis? Came back from where?"

"I told you last night. They caught him. He fucked up, Sammy!"

"You need a drink. I'll get you some water." Sam stood up and walked out of Jorin's room.

Jorin, still lying on his bed naked, stared at the wall. His mind was racing.

Sam came back with a pitcher of water. He poured Jorin a glass and handed it to him.

Jorin sat up and quickly drank the water, most of it spilling down his chin. His head was still in pain. Jorin dropped the glass and started to rub Alexis' tooth.

Sam picked up the glass and poured more water. He set both down and said, "Come on, Jorin. Let's get some food in you. Maybe that'll help you calm down."

Sam lifted the naked otter out of bed and managed to clothe him. With Jorin draped around Sam's neck for support, the two made their way to the Sultry Seal, a small café Sam liked to visit during the week.

Jorin felt weak. His pain had mostly subsided, but he was still shivering. He felt weak. Cold and weak. And very tired.

The two finally reached the Seal. They sat at the table furthest from the window.

Sam ordered two coffees and rubbed Jorin's shoulder. "I'm sure Alexis is fine. What's the worst they'll do to him?"

"They could kill him!"

Sam sighed just as their coffee arrived. He picked his up, blew on it, and took a sip.

"C'mon, Jorin, this will wake you up. You look like you didn't sleep at all last night."

"I couldn't stop thinking about Alexis. I have to help him. But how?"

"Well, first of all, we don't know for sure that anything's happened. But, assuming for a moment he got caught, I can only think of two places Alexis could be. Either back at Greystone's manor or at Stonewood Prison."

Jorin held Alexis' tooth and stared into it. Tears formed in his eyes. He said, quietly, "I have to help him, Sammy. He's just a kid. I should have never gotten involved with him. Everything would be so much easier."

"Hey," Sam said reassuringly, "I know you don't mean that. These past three months have been wonderful for you. I mean, not only have you been able to steel twice as much stuff, but you've been so much happier. You love him more than anything in the world. And he loves you too, Jorin."

Jorin stared into Sam's eyes. "I know... You're right," he said, wiping the tears from his eyes. "So, what now, then? Where do I start looking?"

"If I were you, Jor, I'd start back at the Greystone estate. Go at night. Get the information from whoever you lay your paws on first. Most servants are cowards, so they'll give in easily. But they don't know much. Do what you have to."

Jorin finally drank some of his coffee. He lowered his mug and said, with a slight tone of malevolence, "I intend to."

The sun sank behind the Western Coast. It was time to move. Jorin left for Vandale as soon as it was dark. He approached the front wall. Without hesitation, Jorin quickly ran past the two guards. The chain was still attached to the pike. He clambered up.

Now on the other side, Jorin took off. He stealthily made his way to the cellar door. It was still propped open from the previous night. Jorin slipped in.

Jorin searched the dirty, maze-like cellar for clues. The two unconscious guards were gone. Jorin searched small alcoves and rooms throughout the cellar. Then he reached a set of stone stairs.

Determined, Jorin climbed the spiraling staircase. The stairs were longer than he expected. When Jorin reached the top, he felt as if he had just climbed a tower.

The room Jorin had just entered was a bedroom. The lights were out and the room was empty. There was a large bed in the centre of the round room, and five pointed-arch windows in all. On the other side was another set of stairs. Jorin quickly realized he was in a tower.

On either side of the bed were two small tables. On one was a gold-framed pair of spectacles, plus a half-empty glass of water. On the other was a black leather-bound book. The bed, a large pink canopy hovering above, was covered in pink silk sheets and matching pillows. Beside the bed was a large wooden shelf. It held many books and various trinkets. On either side of the room were the staircases, railings running along the top.

Jorin sat on the bed and opened the book. It was small, just larger than his outspread paw. Jorin flipped through the pages. Nothing interesting, nor useful.

Suddenly, footsteps. Jorin quickly closed the book and dropped it on the table. He stood up and jumped over the small railing of the spiral staircase. He poked his head up slightly and watched the dark figure ascend the other stairs.

This fur, not a servant, was short, roughly Jorin's height, and thin, so far as Jorin could see. The stranger sat on the edge of the bed and lit a candle, which he had taken from the shelf. In the harsh candlelight, Jorin could see a handsome mouse.

Jorin could see now the stranger was dressed like that of nobility. He assumed it was old Mortimer's son, or possibly grandson.

The stranger started to undress. He removed his dark blue coat and threw it on the railing near Jorin's head. Then he slipped off his white silk shirt and rubbed his furry white chest, humming.

Jorin looked away, closing his eyes tightly. "For the love of God," he said to himself. Jorin looked back up.

The mouse now had his belt undone and was pulling down his pants. With his pants now completely off and kicked to the floor, the white mouse started to massage his balls. He wiggled and writhed as he did.

Jorin suddenly felt a pressure in his pants. 'Fuck,' he thought to himself. 'If you're going to make a move, Jorin, do it now.'

Jorin stood up and quietly made his way back up the few stairs. He kept low. Now at the top, crouching behind the end of the railings, Jorin watched, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.

The mouse, now mostly erect, started to stroke his member slowly. He moaned as he did. Almost in harmony with his busy paw, the mouse rubbed his inner thigh with the other.

Jorin started to sweat. He, too, was nearly fully erect, and he cursed himself for it. He decided he had had enough. Jorin stood up, ignoring his stand to attention, and pulled out a dagger. Almost as quickly as he had gotten up, Jorin was on the bed and held the sharp dagger to the mouse's neck.

The mouse hadn't noticed Jorin until the otter was on the bed.

"Don't hurt me," the mouse cried. "I'll give you whatever you want."

Jorin, now completely on top of the mouse, spit into his ear, "Fuck you, mouse! If you value your life, you'll tell me everything I want to know."

"Anything. Just don't hurt me!"

Jorin talked as intimidating and harsh as he could, "Last night, a couple thieves broke in. What happened the other one?"

"Who was the first one?"

"I'm the first one. Now tell me what you know!"

"I- I don't know anything."

Jorin growled and lifted the mouse out of the bed then threw him against the shelf. Several books and unused candles and flasks fell to the floor. Jorin jabbed his dagger deep into the wooden shelf, nearly hitting the mouse's head.

Jorin grabbed the naked mouse by the neck and squeezed, still pushing him into the shelf.

More malevolent than before, Jorin repeated his question.

The mouse began to cry.

Jorin released the mouse, frustrated. He then shouted, "Tell me what you did with the thief!"

The mouse replied only with tears.

Jorin pulled his dagger out of the shelf and sheathed it. He knew he wasn't going to get an answer. Jorin stood at the top of the second staircase, the one leading into the manor, and turned to the mouse.

"If you tell a single soul about this tonight, I will make it my duty to destroy you." With that, Jorin turned and started down.

"Wait, thief," the mouse said, sniffling, "I think I might know about your friend."

Jorin stopped and walked back up the stairs. He stood in front of the now standing mouse. The mouse was shivering.

"What do you know?" Jorin asked.

"My information comes with a certain price, thief."

Jorin replied with stone-cold silence.

The mouse continued, "I may know what they did with your lion friend, but first I want you to do something for me." He started to massage his own balls again. This time, the mouse used his other paw to grab Jorin's crotch, also massaging.

The mouse smiled, "I'll tell you everything you want to know. All you have to do is... give me a kiss."

Jorin remained silent. He raised a brow.

"But it can't be any normal kiss. It has to be passionate. I want our kiss to evolve into something more... carnal."

Jorin looked down and noticed the mouse was hardening once again. Jorin felt that familiar pressure in his pants again. He tried to ignore it.

"I can see you approve of this idea?" the mouse said.

Jorin quickly grabbed hold of the mouse's wrist, squeezed tightly, and pulled his paw away. Finally, Jorin spoke, "No. I don't."

"Then I don't know anything."

"I don't get it, kid. You go from tears to this?" Jorin was realizing the mouse was much more clever than he had thought. Probably a lot older, too.

"You figured me out, thief. I'm a lonely mouse. I take my pleasure wherever I can get it."

"Please, mouse, I implore you, tell me where my partner is."

The mouse sighed. "First of all, my name isn't 'mouse.' It's Frederic Greystone III. And my offer hasn't changed."

Jorin started to feel a pain in his stomach. He growled deeply. With his left paw, he took out Alexis' tooth and rubbed it. He had two options, and only one would give him an answer.

Jorin released the tooth and placed both paws on Frederic's face. He placed his muzzle softly against Frederic's and kissed, slowly and sensually. He felt a small yet powerful tongue enter his mouth. Jorin returned the gesture. Finally, Jorin finished and backed off his head.

Frederic seemed breathless. He was fully erect and throbbing. He grabbed his cock quickly, rubbing it slowly, as if trying to preserve something precious.

"Now, tell me," Jorin said bluntly.

"You've earned some knowledge, thief. I knew you were coming. With my father and my grandfather gone, it was up to me to protect their manor. I anticipated your move to the cellar; that's where the vault is and it's the easiest way in. I also knew if you managed to get past the guards, I could let you wander about in the vaults, then catch you on the way out."

"How would you know it was me?"

"I didn't. In fact, I was surprised there was two of you. Fortunately for you, we were too preoccupied with your friend to nab you. But you seem to have returned to me."

"You're a smart lad. So, what did you do with Alexis?"

"Who?" Frederic asked ignorantly.

"My partner, you prick!"

"Ah, of course. That'll cost you extra." Frederic gestured toward his cock.

Jorin growled and got on his knees. He paused for a moment. He started to lick the tip of Frederic's throbbing organ, then wrapped his lips around. He moved the cock further into his mouth, moving back and forth as he did. Jorin gently rubbed Frederic's balls with his left paw, and with his right, reached for a throwing knife.

Frederic was moaning loudly. He seemed to enjoy this immensely.

Suddenly, in one fluid motion, Jorin grabbed a tight hold of Frederic's cock and held the knife up between the member and its boys.

Frederic yelped.

"You're going to tell me where Alexis is, or I swear I'll cut them off."

Frederic backed into the shelf. He seemed aroused and terrified at the same time.

Jorin lifted his paw and cut Frederic's hardened organ.

Frederic yelled and held his wound. He fell to the floor and scrambled to the bed, dripping blood all over.

Jorin licked the blood off his knife. The blood dripped down his furry chin and he said, "You are going to tell me where Alexis is!"

Terrified, Frederic tried to explain, "He... he's... his parents... He's with... the bounty..."

"The bounty? What the hell do you need with a bounty?"

Frederic had wrapped his wound with an expensive-looking kerchief. He shakily lifted himself onto the bed. He went on, "I just wanted my father to be proud of me. He doesn't approve of my... particular lifestyle."

"I don't care about you or your father."

"Well, you won't mind then if I call up the guards."

Jorin stared Frederic deep in the eye. "Go ahead. Call your guards. I can assure you, you will regret it."

Frederic stood up and hobbled over to flat velvet rope. He grabbed onto it with his bloody paw. He stared back into Jorin's eyes.

The two stood still, staring each other down. Then, Frederic pulled the rope.

Jorin could hear a faint bell from out the window.

"Fuck!" he shouted. Jorin took off down the cellar stairs. He stopped part way. Footsteps. Jorin raced back up.

At the top, Frederic had put his pants back on and a set of guards were making their way up.

Jorin moved to the middle of the round room, setting his paws on a couple throwing knives.

All the bulldogs were in the room now, blocking any possible exit. There was eight in total.

"You can't win, little otter," the lead guard proclaimed. "Just give up now, and we might go easy on you."

Jorin spat on the guard's foot.

The guard lifted his giant arm and smacked Jorin hard.

Jorin hadn't seen it coming. Too fast. He fell to the stone floor. He shook his head and propped himself up.

The wolf lifted Jorin into the air and growled. "So, you want to do it the hard way, huh? Suits me just fine."

Jorin swiped his knife at the wolf's face.

The wolf twitched his head slightly, letting the blood run down his cheek. He smiled then threw Jorin across the room, into the shelf. The shelf toppled over on Jorin.

Jorin tried to lift himself up, but he couldn't move. The shelf was too heavy. Suddenly, the shelf got heavier. He could see the guard's foot, the other on the shelf. Jorin felt an incredible pain in his head and his stomach. He knew this would happen. He hoped it could have been avoided, but he knew. It was inevitable.

Jorin began to howl frighteningly. The pain in his head intensified. Jorin started to prop himself up. He could see the guard back off.

Jorin stood up straight, the shelf tipped backward now. All eight guards backed off. Frederic, too, joined the guards. They seemed almost horrified.

"H-how is this possible?" Frederic cried melodramatically.

Jorin's fur was black as pitch, and two-inch horns bulged from his head. Jorin was breathing heavily, and his eyes seemed almost to glow. He said, in a raspy, demonic voice, "I begged you to give me Alexis. I told you you'd regret this, and now you will all pay!"

Jorin rushed up to the first guard, almost in an instant, and pushed his paw straight through his jugular.

The wolf made a choking then a gurgling noise and fell to the floor.

Frederic and the other seven guards gasped and backed into the wall.

Jorin howled again. Three guards stumbled down the stairs, two to the left and one to the right, running in fear. The last four, plus Frederic, were paralyzed with fear.

Jorin bent over and picked up the dead guard's sword. He unsheathed it, and as quickly as he had killed the wolf, shoved it into the closest guard. He pushed the guard straight into the other standing right behind him. He continued to push the two into the wall.

Blood sprayed everywhere, soaking the black otter.

Jorin held the sword in place, twisting it around.

The two guards cried out in agony, tears and blood running down their faces.

Jorin smiled demonically at the sound of their torment. Jorin finally let go of the sword, letting the two guards topple awkwardly to the floor.

Jorin whipped his blood-soaked head toward the two remaining guard. He reached up quickly and grabbed hold of both their throats. Still smiling his evil smile, Jorin squeezed hard. His small claws punctured the guards flesh. Jorin yelled and gripped tighter.

The guards screamed out in pain. Their noise was silenced by a loud snap then a crunching, then finally, in amongst the cracking, a gushing noise.

Jorin pulled back his arms and ripped out their throats, gore now dangling from his tight fists. Jorin dropped the gore and stared down at the carnage he had wrought.

He looked up and Frederic and said, "Run, kid."

Frederic stood paralyzed, trembling.

"Run!"

Frederic fell backward over two dead guards. He clambered to his shaky feet and rushed down the stairs.

When Frederic was out of sight, Jorin fell to his knees, holding his head in pain, shaking. He cried out in pain. Jorin took out Alexis' necklace with his left, bloody paw. He rubbed it softly and wept into it.

"I'm sorry, Alexis... I couldn't help it... if... if only you were here..."

Jorin's pain slowly subsided. He tried to concentrate on Alexis. He sat in the bloody mess, struggling to control his pain.

Hours passed, or so it felt. Jorin staggered down the cold, now snowy streets like a drunkard. His fur had turned back to its normal brown and the horns had withdrawn. Jorin's intense pain was gone, but he felt terribly sick. Jorin was still shivering from the freezing blood.

Jorin heard a familiar voice. He called out, "Alexis? Is that you?"

The dark figured turned looked over at Jorin. It waved the other furs goodbye and rushed over.

"Oh my God, Jorin. What the hell happened to you?"

"Oh, Alexis, I found you! I thought you were gone forever." Jorin collapsed into his partners arms. He smiled, "I love you, Alexis. Don't ever run away from me again."

"Jorin, I'm not Alexis. I'm Sam. Now, come on. We've gotta get you cleaned up. We can go back to my place."

The two walked slowly through the twisted streets. Sam held Jorin close, trying to keep his friend warm.

The snow fell gently from the dark, orange sky. The streets were dead-silent, except for the snow crunching beneath the pair's feet. Their breath hung in the cold, crisp air. Jorin's shivering was loud and audible. Sam started to rub Jorin's shoulder.

Finally, the two reached Sam's house. They shook the thin layer of snow off their backs and entered.

Sam lead Jorin into the bathroom, where he ran Jorin a hot bath.

Jorin continued muttering to himself, staring into the empty space. He was still shivering.

Sam helped Jorin out of his blood-soaked clothes and into the tub.

Jorin gasped at the sudden shock of the warm water. He sank slowly into the tub. Almost instantly, the water had turned a reddish hue. Jorin sighed in relief. It felt like forever since he had gotten any real rest.

Jorin turned and said, "Thank you, Sammy... I... You've always been there for me. And you're right, you know. I'd probably be dead without you."

"Alright, Jor. It's my pleasure. Now, unless you need something else, I'll leave you to your business." Sam smiled and left Jorin alone.

Jorin sank deeper into the tub, letting the water reach his chin. He grabbed a rag from the edge of the tub and began to scrub the blood off. He still felt slightly sick. He couldn't stop thinking about Alexis.

Jorin came to realize that Alexis was probably in no immediate danger at all.

'His parents put out a warrant to have their son back, and they have him now,' Jorin thought to himself. 'He can always just escape again... But... what if he can't? What if he's locked up so tightly, he can't go anywhere? Maybe he doesn't even want to come back. He gave up life in the lap of luxury just to be with some dirty old thief... and now he's sitting in that lap once again. He probably realized he made a huge mistake and will never leave the mansion.'

Jorin sank lower, the water now just below his nose. He was clean now. He sat in the dirty water, feeling more and more depressed.

Sam opened the door. He walked to the tub and lifted Jorin up. "C'mon, Jor. You've been in there long enough."

Sam reached over and handed Jorin a towel.

Jorin took it and wrapped it poorly around his waist. He looked up to Sam and said, "What if Alexis doesn't want to come back?"

"Woah, woah, woah. Let's sit down. I made hot cocoa. Tell me what happened."

The two left the bathroom and sat at a round wooden table. Jorin stared into his mug for a long while. Finally, he looked up at Sam and said, "Alexis wasn't at the Greystone manor. Then I met Greystone's kid."

"Old Mort has a kid?!"

"No. Mortimer's son has a kid, Frederic. He's a fag, just like me and you."

"Oh. Well, this is all very fascinating, Jorin, but what happened to Alexis?"

"Oh, yeah. The kid caught him. Gave him back to the Harper's. He probably fucked him, too. That bastard..."

"You're talking about Frederic, right?"

"It doesn't matter. I'm never going to see Alexis again, anyway. You know, he could have anything or anyone in the entire world. He doesn't need a low-life thief like me. I was ignorant to think otherwise."

"Alright, Jorin, now you listen to me," Sam said in a stern voice, grabbing Jorin's shoulder, "Alexis loves you. And you love him. Nobody forced him to leave his life behind. Unlike most furs, he had something to lose. He had all the money anyone could ever ask for, and he threw it all away to be with you."

"So what? Nobody even knew about him. All he had was money. His parents don't even love him. They're ashamed of him. He had nothing to lose."

"Well, Jorin, I'm sorry you feel that way. But Alexis gave up something most furs never would, and that tells volumes about him... Which is more than I can say for you."

Sam stood up and walked away. He took off his shirt and threw it angrily into the corner. He said back to Jorin, "I'm going to bed. You can sleep wherever the hell you want."

Jorin stared back into his mug. He fidgeted with the tooth around his neck. The house was dark. Jorin made his way to an old brown couch sitting below a foggy window. He lay on the couch, trying to get comfortable. It was impossible. Jorin got up and walked to the door Sam had entered. He turned the knob while knocking quietly. He poked his head in and whispered, "Hey, Sammy... I can't sleep on your couch..."

No response.

Jorin sighed. "Look, I'm sorry, Sammy. I've been through a lot tonight. You saw me. You know what happened..."

Still no response. Finally, "Alright, Jorin. I understand. I guess I just get worked up about that sort of thing... you don't know how lucky you are, Jor..."

There was a long pause.

Sam sighed, "C'mon, you can sleep with me tonight. But don't get used to it."

Jorin smiled and inched his way through Sam's darkened room. He made it to the bed and removed the towel. Jorin climbed under the sheets and snuggled close to Sam.

Jorin ran his paw down Sam's figure. His fur was warm and soft, and Jorin placed his paw on Sam's chest, caressing it slightly.

Sam stirred a bit. He whispered, "Jorin, what're you doing?"

"Just getting comfortable, Sammy."

Sam grunted and rested his head back down. The two shared their warmth. Jorin fell quickly to sleep.

Jorin awoke to a loud bang. He shook his head and covered his eyes. The sun was bright through the window. Jorin felt around blindly. Sam was gone.

Jorin jumped out of bed. He opened the door and was greeted by the usual bright-eyed bunny. Jorin asked, groggily, "What the hell was that noise?"

"That was the sound of me telling you to get out of my house."

"Huh?"

"Unlike you, Jorin, I work during the day. And you're not staying here."

Jorin rubbed his eyes. "Why not?"

"Because I know you, Jorin. You'll mess everything up, then by nightfall you're off to pillage another mansion."

"You make it sound like a bad thing."

Sam sighed. "You look much better this morning. I think you can make home safely."

"But I'm not dressed for it. I'll freeze to death. There's ten feet of snow out there!"

"There's six inches, and you'll be fine."

"Fine," Jorin said like a kid. He picked up his filthy clothes and put them on. "You happy now? I smell like shit!"

"Quit your whining. I don't want you hanging around while I work. You'll distract me and I'll be late. I have deadlines, you know."

"How hard can it be to fix a few shoes?"

"It's an art, you uncultured swine."

"I resent that."

"Nevertheless, you can't stay. I'm sorry, but that's just the way it is."

"Alright. We gonna meet at the pub tonight?"

"Sure. Catch ya later."

Jorin left Sam's and quickly made his was down the cold twisted streets. The sun was shining brightly, hardly a cloud in the deep blue sky. Jorin came around the corner of a narrow alley into the main bazaar. It was completely empty, dead silent.

The sight was quite serene. Jorin stood at the entrance of the alley and took a deep breath. The air was crisp and fresh. The cold wind whistled through the bazaar, spiraling loose snow into the air. Jorin continued slowly through the bazaar. Only the sound of the wind and the snow crunching beneath his feet could be heard.

When Jorin reached the opposite end of the bazaar, he heard something from the alley he had just come from. He turned around. Jorin listened closer. It sounded like an argument. Jorin moved to his left to get a better view of the alley. It was the City Guard.

Jorin waited for a moment. The two City Guard looked down the alley, straight at Jorin. He took off.

As Jorin ran, he could hear the two City Guard rushing after him, yelling as they did. Jorin darted right. He clambered up a ladder. Now on the rooftops, commonly called the "thieves' highway," Jorin leapt from building to building.

The buildings in this area of the City were short and roughly the same size. The narrow alleys and streets made it easy for Jorin to escape.

Jorin looked back. He wasn't being followed, at least, not on the roofs. Jorin stopped to catch his breath and get his bearings. On such a clear day, he could see the City for miles. Jorin's house was to the south. Jorin took off once again.

Within minutes, Jorin reached his home. He went to open his door when he noticed an envelope nailed to his door with a sharp dagger. He ripped off the envelope and entered his home. Jorin figured it was just the landlord threatening to throw him out again. He threw the notice on his table and removed his smelly, blood-soaked clothes.

Jorin covered the window and lay down in bed. He was thinking, again, of Alexis. He felt confused. He didn't know what to do.

'Do I try to rescue him? Maybe he is better off without me... but I should try... I have nothing to lose... he had something to lose... I have to...'

Jorin drifted off to sleep.

Hours passed. The sky darkened and Jorin woke to a sudden chill. He remembered he was supposed to meet Sam at the bar. Jorin put on a fresh pair of clothes when he saw the notice. He grabbed it and left to the pub.

It was snowing again, and Jorin dressed much warmer than before. When he arrived at the pub, he kicked the snow off his boots and met his friend.

Jorin slapped the envelope down on the wooden table. The table was covered in dried sticky ale and peanut shells.

"What's this?" Sam asked, lowering his drink.

"Guess."

Sam smiled devilishly, "Is it what I think it is?"

Jorin returned the smile, "What do you think it is?"

"Another eviction notice?" Sam said giddily, grabbing the notice.

"You bet your sweet, furry ass it is!"

"Hey, wait... your rent isn't due 'til next week, isn't it?" Sam opened the envelope and pulled out the letter.

Jorin sat down, somewhat concerned.

Sam read the letter aloud, "Dear Jorin, this is your one true love, Alexis. I'm at my parents house now. If you want me, come get me tonight. I'm so lonely. Sincerely, Alexis."

Sam lowered the letter. "Something seems off."

Jorin snatched the letter from Sam and read it. "God damn it!" he cursed, crumpling the letter and slamming it to the table. "I'm going to go get him!"

"Woah. Hold on a second, Jor. Didn't that letter seem odd to you? You know... fake?"

"I don't care. I've made my decision."

"Jorin, think logically about this! It's probably a trap. Alexis probably had nothing to do with this letter, and I wouldn't doubt his parents want revenge for you 'kidnaping' their son. You have no idea what the Greystone kid told them."

There was a silence in amongst the rowdiness of the pub.

"I have to at least try, Sam. Show Alexis I haven't forgotten him."

"That's insane. How could he forget?"

"You won't change my mind. Tonight, I'm going to break Alexis free, and nobody's going to stand in my way."

With that, Jorin stood out of his seat and turned to the door.

Sam stood up and placed his paw on the otter's shoulder, "Please, Jorin... At least have a drink with me. I don't want this... to be our final moment together."

Jorin faced Sam. He noticed tears forming in the rabbit's eyes. Jorin sighed. "Sammy... I can't... I have to try..."

Jorin tightly embraced his best friend. He whispered into his ear, "If something happens to me... I want you to promise to take care of Alexis."

Crying, Sam said, "Don't say that, Jorin. You'll be fine... I won't let my best friend die without me..."

The two smiled and shared their embrace for what seemed like hours.

Finally, Jorin parted. He left the pub and gathered his tools from his home. At the stroke of midnight, Jorin took off.

Jorin reached the front gates of the Harper manor. It had been over three months since he had last broken into the manor. He could do it again.

Jorin ran along the outer wall to a thick growth of vines, now just a bunch of awkward twigs. He clambered up and was on the other side. Jorin made his way up the large, snowy lawn. He had to be extra cautious now, in that he stuck out in the snow. Bushes, trees, and walls made excellent covers.

Jorin quickly and expertly made his way to the manor wall. It was simple. He would enter the same way he did three months ago.

Jorin crept along the wall to the open kitchen window. He listened carefully for servants or guards. Silence. He poked his head up slightly. The coast was clear. Jorin hopped in. He walked quietly across the messy kitchen floor. He listened through the door leading to the dining hall. Still silence. Jorin walked through cautiously.

In the middle of the room was a large, wooden rectangular dining table. It had a silk crimson tablecloth, with gold tassels brushing the chairs beneath. The table had two gold, unlit candlesticks in the middle. On the right side of the hall was an impressive fireplace. The fire was lit, casting a long shadow of the table and chairs on the left wall. On either side of the fireplace was two large portraits. On the left, Lord Reginald Harper, and the right, his wife, Lady Elizabeth.

There were two exits at the far end of the hall. Jorin saw shadows of furs through the right, and nothing at the left. Jorin swiftly crossed the dining hall and entered the left door. Jorin was in a long hallway, a staircase to his left. Jorin heard footsteps coming his way. He raced up the stairs.

Now on the second floor, Jorin knew where to find Alexis. The room straight across from the stairwell was where he first met his love. Jorin entered the room.

The room was dark. In the centre, along the right wall, was a large bed. The bed had red silk sheets, and Jorin noticed a body in the middle. Jorin crept forward.

The body was shaking.

Jorin listened closely. He heard sobbing. It sounded like Alexis. Jorin reached the edge of the bed.

The body turned around and pulled down the sheets.

"Alexis..." Jorin said softly.

Alexis was crying. "Jorin... you shouldn't have come here..."

"What? What's wrong?"

Suddenly, the doors burst open and ten guards rushed through each one. Twenty guards in total. Jorin whipped his head to the weeping Alexis, bewilderment in his face.

"I'm sorry, Jorin..."

Jorin's eyes began to water. Stunned, he said, "How... how could you..."

Alexis turned away as his parents entered the room.

Lord Reginald cut in, "Ah, so you're Jorin, the 'master' thief. I thought you'd be taller. But, never mind that. I knew you'd come for Alexis again. You stole him from me, and being the thief that you are, I counted on you returning for your prize. And now I'll make you pay for your crimes."

"Ha! I've escaped from Stonewood Prison before. I can do it again!" Jorin spat.

"Oh, my. You don't seem to understand, you stupid otter. I have no intention of giving you to the City Guard. It just so happens I have my own brand of condemnation. One nobody escapes from."

The Lord snapped his fingers and four guards approached.

Alexis looked back up. "Oh, God..." he said, frightened, tears running down his face.

The first two guards grabbed Jorin by his arms.

Jorin struggled. He felt a familiar pain in his stomach and head. He growled.

The third guard punched Jorin hard in the gut.

Jorin spat out blood. He growled deeper, and his pain intensified. He cried out in agony. Jorin twisted his paws around and grabbed onto both guards arms, just above their elbows. Jorin squeezed, baring his teeth.

The guards yelped and leaned back slightly. The third guard paused for a moment. He struck Jorin in the face, blood spraying onto the right guard.

Jorin yelled louder and squeezed harder. His paws started crushing the guards joints. An audible cracking sound could be heard by all. Jorin growled more, still baring his white teeth. He quickly twisted the guards arms around, breaking their bones in half.

The two guards screamed horrifically, collapsing to the red-carpeted floor. . Jorin smiled an evil smile.

"Oh, my! What in heavens is happening to is fur?" the Lady shrieked.

"Jorin, no!" Alexis shouted. "You have to stop this!"

"Seize him!" Lord Harper shouted.

Suddenly, it was eighteen versus one.

Without haste, Jorin shoved his powerful fist straight through the closest guard's neck. Blood sprayed all over Jorin, and he laughed wickedly. He could hear the Lady screaming.

The guards hesitated for a moment.

Jorin continued to laugh wickedly. He faintly heard weeping. He turned to the bed. Jorin noticed his terrified lover. He then cried out in pain, holding his head. Jorin fell to his knees.

Alexis leapt out of bed and rushed over to Jorin. He lifted his head. "Jorin... I'm here. You don't have to do this..."

Jorin shakily held his bloody paw to Alexis' face. "I... love you, Alexis... I want you... to be with me..."

"Enough of this!" the Lord shouted. He pushed his way past the guards. "Seize him and throw him in the dungeon!"

Two guards approached and lifted Jorin to his feet.

"No, you can't do this, father! Let him go!" Alexis reached for Jorin.

The Lord intercepted. "Never mind, boy. He is no longer your concern. You make me sick!"

Alexis struggled to get to Jorin.

"Take my son away. He doesn't need to see this."

Two guards grabbed Alexis and dragged him out of the room.

Lord Reginald turned to Jorin. "What made you think you could get away with kidnaping and raping my son..."

"What?! I did no such thing, you ignorant son of a bitch!"

The Lord smacked Jorin across the face. He gestured with his head to take Jorin away.

Jorin was dragged out of the room. He struggled to keep his demon from ripping his enemies apart. Jorin offered little resistance, thinking of Alexis. He had to control himself, for his sake... He could escape. He knew he could.

The two guards led Jorin to the end of a long hallway, escorted by four more. They pulled a candlestick and a secret door opened. It lead down a cold, dark stairway. They continued down the stairs. At the bottom was a large, rusted-metal door, with a small bared window part way down. They opened the heavy door and pulled Jorin through.

This room had several other doors, nine in total; four on one side, four on the other, plus one solid metal door at the very end. The first eight doors were barred, like in a prison. Jorin feared what was through the last door.

The chambers smelled of rotting flesh and feces. It was dark, dank, and cold.

Jorin was dragged to the far end of the prison-like hallway. There, he was stripped and thrown into the room with the solid metal door.

Inside was pitch black. Jorin huddled in the centre, cold and terrified.

Hours seemed to pass. Jorin finally decided to stand up. Slowly, Jorin felt his way around the room. He came to a table... with what felt like straps, or shackles. He then came across what seemed like a cage... hanging from the ceiling... like a giant birdcage. Jorin felt the stone wall now. He inched his way to the left.

Jorin felt various chains and restraints along the way. He reached a corner. There was a large case here. It was metal... about the size of a large fur... he guessed an iron maiden... Jorin continued down. He felt many chains and sharp metal objects. Finally, Jorin felt a chair. As he carefully felt across the chair, he was suddenly pricked by the many rows of spikes covering the arms and seat. Jorin backed off. He was breathing heavily now.

Suddenly, light poured into the room. Jorin squinted and rushed to the door. "Alexis? Is that you?!"

The door slammed and a rough voiced sounded, "No... I'm here to kill you. Please step back from the door. Guards want to keep you from running."

"Fuck you!" Jorin shouted.

"Very well..."

The door burst open again, and Jorin jumped back. Two very large guards walked in and grabbed hold of Jorin.

Jorin struggled to escape. His arms were shackled to chains hanging from the ceiling. He dangled helplessly above the floor. The two guards left and an old pasty rat emerged. He lit two torches beside the metal door and pulled out a wooden case from his brown cloak.

"It's been a while since I've had fresh blood. And you look like a feisty one. We're going to have fun. Please, don't take is personally."

Jorin spat at the old rat's dirty feet. "Don't you dare touch me!"

The rat laughed. "You don't have much choice in the matter." He turned to the table and set his case down. He opened it up and pulled out a jar of what looked like needles. He also pulled out various-sized hooks and knives. Already set up on the table were long iron rods, plus many candles. The rat progressed to light each one. He then walked past the table to what looked like a blacksmith's kiln. The rat threw in a torch and started to stoke the fire.

"This'll only take a minute, otter. We have to wait for Lord Reginald, anyway. I guess he wants to have a few words with you first."

Moments later, the Lord walked in and shut the door behind him. He was carrying a whip. "You have caused me much distress, thief."

"This is insane!" cried the naked otter, "This can't possibly be over Alexis!"

"Clever, thief. Very clever. But you're right. This is a matter of principle. First you killed two of my guards while I was away, then stole a precious mask and gold artifact. And then you stole and raped my son. That is unforgivable."

"I told you, I never stole your son... he left on his own. He was miserable! He was a prisoner here."

"Enough of this!" the Lord shouted. He held up the whip and struck Jorin on the chest.

Jorin cried out.

"You have made a very powerful enemy, thief. And I have no intention of letting you get away with that." The Lord yelled and whipped Jorin several more times, one strike after another.

Jorin's chest was bleeding steadily. He started to groan and twitch. Jorin heard a cry from the door. He looked over, as did the rat and the Lord.

They could hear Alexis. He was banging on the door, begging his father to stop.

"Damn child!" the Lord cursed. He walked over to the door and opened it up. "What the hell are you doing down here?"

Alexis tried to push his way past his father. He was at a disadvantage, as far as size and strength go. His father held Alexis firmly in place.

"Alright, son. If you want to see the thief so much, you can join him down here. You can watch as our good friend Rattus teaches the otter a few things about stealing from a Harper."

"No! You can't do this! Mother would not allow it!"

"Ha! What do you expect her to do about it?" The Lord grabbed his son and stuffed him in the large hanging cage, facing Jorin.

The Lord picked up his whip and angrily struck Jorin's chest and back several more times.

Alexis cried for mercy.

The Lord, breathing heavily, threw the whip in Jorin's face and left. Before shutting the solid metal door behind him, he said to the rat, "Don't lay a finger on my son. He's only here to watch... and he will watch." The Lord slammed the door behind him.

Jorin continued to groan.

Rattus walked up to Jorin and shackled his feet together. "Alright, little otter. You belong to me now. How should we start?"

"Rattus!" Alexis shouted. "Please, I beg you! Let us go! I'll do anything."

The rat ignored the lion. He picked a set of long sharp needles from the table. He also picked up a candle and moved it to a small stand beside Jorin. Rattus placed the needles down save for the one in his paw. He heated it up in the candle and held it up to Jorin's face.

"Don't worry, thief. I won't hit anything vital. I plan on keeping you down here for a long, long time."

Rattus lowered the needle and pressed it against Jorin's stomach. Smoke rose and Jorin screamed. Rattus slid the needle straight into Jorin's gut. It hissed and sizzled as it slid through.

Jorin screamed horrifically. Jorin could feel the hot needle slide straight through his body, and he could feel it burning his insides.

Alexis, too, cried out.

Rattus heated another needle and stuck it into another area of Jorin's gut. The same horrible scream.

"Stop this!! Stop this now!!!" Alexis rattled the cage wildly. It was futile.

Hours passed and Jorin was a bloody mess. He hung there helplessly. His chest was shredded from the Lord's whip, and blood still dripped down off his feet. He had at least ten needles poking out his burned flesh; four in his gut, one in each shoulder, two in his neck, and one in each arm. There were probably more. He had at least thirty smaller needles piercing his skin on his back, all the way down his spine. Both Jorin's small ears held three or more barbed hooks, as well as his nose, lips, tongue, and nipples. His left eye had been gouged out with a red-hot dagger, and a large scar ran down his face from his forehead, through his former left eye, and down to his jaw. Jorin was in constant pain.

Rattus had left to take a short break, letting Jorin's body adapt to the searing pain. He would be back in a half hour to begin torture on Jorin's nether regions, as well as play around with the hooks. He said he would save Jorin's testicles for last, as per the Lord's request.

Jorin hung there, making the occasional groan or twitch. His eyes were closed, and his breathing was heavy and coarse.

Alexis was in tears. He was drained physically and mentally. "Jorin," he would call out. When he did, Jorin's chains rattled. This was a good sign. "I'm gonna get us out of here... I don't know how... just hang in there..."

The metal door suddenly swung open. Rattus walked in. "Alright, little thief, I'm back. I hope you aren't too exhausted. This will be the fun part."

Alexis continued to rattle the cage, trying to pop open the door.

"Stupid lion. You won't open that cage. If it were up to me, you'd be hanging right there beside your friend."

"When I get out of here, I'm going to rip you apart!" Alexis threatened.

"Ha! Don't make me laugh." Rattus turned and attached another chain to Jorin's tail and hoisted it up.

Jorin's tail was held up high, exposing his tailhole. Jorin whimpered as this happened. It was excruciatingly painful to move even slightly.

Rattus tied down the chain and turned to the kiln. He walked over and pulled out a red-hot metal rod, like a fire poker. The end of the rod was straight and flat. Rattus waved the glowing rod around and jabbed it into the middle of Jorin's stomach.

Jorin screamed as his fur and flesh burned and sizzled. He began to twitch uncontrollably.

Rattus laughed. He put the rod back into the kiln and pulled out a second. This one was pointed at the end. He walked behind Jorin and softly rubbed his tailhole, smiling. "From what I've heard, thief, you just might enjoy this."

Suddenly, the door swung open. Lady Elizabeth walked through.

"Mother!" Alexis shouted. "You have to stop him!"

The Lady ignored her son's pleas and turned to Rattus. "Good evening, rat," she said, picking up a whip. "You're excused for now. I want to have a word with the thief."

"Yes, mistress. Anything you say, mistress." Rattus said as he left the chamber, holding his head low.

The Lady dropped the whip and walked over to the cage.

"Mother... please."

Lady Elizabeth pulled out a key from her furry bosom. "I never thought your father could be so... cold. I have never seen this side of him before. It makes me sick..." She handed the key to her crying and exhausted son. "I'm going to deal with him later. Please, my dear Alexi, save your love."

The Lady left immediately. As she did, Alexis opened the cage and jumped out.

Soon after the Lady left, Rattus returned. He was stunned to see the cage opened. "Oh, shit." He turned around and watched the Lady walk away from afar. "Damn woman!" He looked back at the cage.

Almost out of nowhere, Rattus was struck by a red-hot metal rod. He fell to the floor holding his burned right cheek. When he looked up, Alexis stood above him.

Alexis bent down and lifted the frightened Rattus off his feet. He growled at the rat and shoved him hard against the stone wall. He punched Rattus in the gut with is large powerful fist. Then again. And again. And again. He picked up the sharp metal rod again and shoved it through Rattus' stomach.

Rattus cried out.

Alexis kept pushing the rod in further and further, nothing but absolute hatred in his face. Tears ran down his face. Alexis let go of the rod and both it and Rattus fell to the floor. He stood for a moment, staring at the dead rat in sheer discontent.

Alexis turned and rushed over to Jorin. He rubbed his cheek softly, "Wake up, Jorin. It's me. It's Alexis. Everything's going to be okay..."

Jorin groaned and opened his eyes slightly. He tried to speak. Tears were pouring from his eyes.

Alexis brought over a small box from the corner of the room so Jorin could stand. He also removed the shackles around Jorin's feet and tail. "Now, listen to me, Jorin. I'm going to remove these needles. I know you've been through a lot, but try to stay still. This will only take a moment."

Alexis started pulling out the large needles first. He pulled slowly and carefully.

Jorin shut his eyes tightly and yelled through his teeth. He felt the same burning he felt when the rat was sticking them in. He could feel every inch the needle moving out.

In a couple minutes, all the long needles were removed. Alexis continued slowly removing the small needles.

Jorin held his breath as Alexis removed each needle.

Finally, all the needles were removed. Alexis unshackled Jorin's wrists and Jorin slowly and painfully lowered his stiff arms.

Suddenly, Jorin collapsed into Alexis' arms. Jorin had hardly any strength left in him. His throat was sore, and his torso was in constant pain. Every movement, even breathing, felt like hell.

Alexis set Jorin down on the wooden table and grabbed a roll of bandages from Rattus' bag. He wrapped Jorin's chest, and caressed it softly.

Jorin shut his eyes tightly once again. The hooks were still stuck in his face.

Alexis searched around in the bag for a pair of wire-snips. When he found them, Jorin stuck out his tongue; three barbed hooks.

Alexis cut off the barbs and removed the hooks. He did the same with the four hooks in Jorin's nose, two for each nostril, the three in both Jorin's ears, and the two in his nipples. Alexis rubbed each spot lightly, trying to comfort Jorin as much he could.

Jorin shakily lifted his paw and placed it on Alexis' face. He tried to lean forward, but it hurt to move.

Alexis leaned in.

Jorin kissed Alexis softly on the lips. They embraced for a long while. In that one kiss, Jorin's pain seemed to drift away. He felt warm. He started to feel lightheaded. Jorin's lips fell away from Alexis', and he felt limp. Jorin shut his eyes and let his mind fall into darkness. All Jorin could hear now was the faint sound of Alexis' crying voice, drifting off into the distance.

Jorin woke up to the noise of crunching snow. The cold wind froze his nose, and his feet were numb. He still couldn't move. He was being dragged somewhere. Jorin opened his eyes as best he could. Somebody was carrying him. Someone dark. Finally, they stopped. Jorin was set down on a cold, snowy bench. Jorin groaned, still in pain.

The dark figure sat beside Jorin's weak, outspread body, brushing it's paw against Jorin's cheek.

Jorin turned his head, incredible pain striking the side of his neck. Jorin winced. It was Alexis.

Jorin tried to raise his paw to return the gesture, but he felt a piercing pain in his left shoulder. He winced again.

"Just relax. Try not to move."

"Where... where are we?" Jorin said, his tongue swollen and in pain.

"I'm taking you home. I figured I'd give ourselves a rest right now."

Jorin sat on the cold bench, his entire body still in agony. He looked up into the dark clouds, wincing every time a snowflake hit his face. He didn't mind. It was refreshing. Jorin's body burned, and the fresh air and light snowfall cooled him.

"I want to thank you, Jorin," Alexis finally said.

"For what? It was my fault you were thrown down there..."

"No. You came for me. You must have known there would be a trap..."

"Alexis... I... I'm sorry... I'm sorry I dragged you into all this... if I had just been less careless, none of this would have ever happened to either of us."

"Jorin, don't say that. I love you, and I would do anything to be with you. You showed me a life outside the cold manor walls. It was a prison, Jorin, and you released me."

Jorin groaned and rolled his tired eyes. "C'mon..."

"I'm serious, Jorin. My life would be nothing without you." Alexis stared deeply into Jorin's eye.

Jorin leaned as far forward as he could, and Alexis lowered his head. They kissed softly in the light snowfall. Their lips slowly fell apart. Their fur was coated in a thin frosting of snow as they continued to gaze into each others eyes.

Jorin's pain seemed once again to have lifted. He realized at that moment he needed Alexis as much as Alexis needed him. Jorin knew he hadn't stumbled into the young lion's room those three months ago by mistake.

Finally, Alexis stood up from the cold bench and helped the aching Jorin to his feet. The two walked down the cold and silent street, paw-in-paw.